Celebrity unveils new river ships as priority access sells out

Early access to Celebrity Cruises‘ new river cruise itineraries has sold out in just six minutes, as the cruise line unveiled Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker – to set sail on the Rhine and Danube rivers in 2027.

Although Priority Booking Access opened this week, giving travellers the chance to secure a stateroom with a fully refundable AUD $800 deposit, “unprecedented demand” saw the capacity quickly snapped up. The remaining 2027 inventory will open to the general public later this month. 

“Celebrity River Cruises ships will be the most innovative on the river, with a patent-pending industry-leading design that offers more space to holiday while bringing guests even closer to destinations,” Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge said.

Inspired by celebrity’s Edge Class series, the ships feature open decks offering 360-degree views, a top-deck infinity-edge plunge pool, and the Magic Edge – the first-ever cantilevered dining pods floating above the river.

Guests can expect residential-style staterooms with king-sized beds, intuitive storage and spacious balconies. Natural light and high-end amenities like stocked mini bars, luxury linens and destination-inspired touches will also feature. Suite guests will also enjoy a dedicated on-demand butler through ‘Butler Chat’, exclusive dining and priority shore excursion bookings.

Culinary experiences are plentiful with eight restaurants and bars, including Celebrity favourites like Martini Bar, Sunset Bar, and Café al Bacio. Guests will enjoy the only 24/7 meal options on the river and menus that evolve with each destination, featuring regional delicacies and local wines.

Sailing through 33 seven-night itineraries, passengers will explore Europe’s cultural heart through multiple daily ports, overnight stays, and exclusive experiences like thermal baths in Budapest, private wine tastings in Austria and cycling along the Danube.

Built with hybrid propulsion and advanced waste and noise management, the ships also reflect Celebrity’s commitment to sustainability.

Loyalty members will benefit too, as Captain’s Club members’ loyalty tiers extend to river holidays with up to 18 points per night and more tier benefits to be announced in 2026.